Najiba Jalal highlights a thought-provoking article by her colleague Mohammed Al-Qusaybi, published on the Kood website, which reignites a critical debate that has long been sidelined: journalism is not merely a business driven by profit and loss. Al-Qusaybi argues that the essence of journalism transcends commercial metrics, emphasizing its role as a societal voice that shapes public opinion, defends national causes, monitors institutions, and upholds democracy.
The Essence of Journalism
Al-Qusaybi’s words encapsulate the issue effectively: “Journalism is not just a business seeking profit, nor is it a commodity to be bought and sold like any commercial venture.” He further contends that journalism “produces ideas, influences minds, and creates positions,” challenging the notion that media can be equated with conventional industries like car manufacturing or consumer goods.
While it is undeniable that journalism requires governance, financial resources, and a sustainable economic model, Al-Qusaybi argues that such a model must emerge from the profession’s intrinsic nature and mission, not from comparisons to typical economic activities. Public opinion is not a product, trust is not a commodity, and societal framing cannot be reduced to mere market dynamics.
Foreign Investment in Media
Regarding foreign capital, the discussion must be nuanced. Moroccan lawmakers have established safeguards not to undermine media independence and sovereignty. However, there exists a significant risk that transcends capital nationality: the monopolization of public opinion. Under the guise of strengthening “robust media enterprises,” there is a danger of a few firms or financial groups monopolizing media influence and steering public discourse.
If media is to be regarded as a strategic sector, then plurality is not a luxury but a foundation for democratic and media security. Consequently, media enterprises, no matter their economic strength, should never become states within states, establishing agendas that dictate public discourse and reduce societal diversity to a singular voice or the interests of an elite few.
Guarding Against Internal Monopolies
Media independence entails not just shielding against external influences but also protecting against internal monopolization and financial dominance, as well as any form of centralization that could lead to an unchecked media power. Thus, the real conversation should not focus on how to make journalism more profitable but rather on how to construct an economic model that safeguards its independence, ensures plurality, and honors its public service mission.
Profit generation is valid, even necessary for the survival of any media organization, yet it cannot serve as the sole compass. National interest must always prevail, as journalism is not merely a business but a vital institution within society, not a state within a state.
